There is so much more to being a dog parent than taking walks, potty training, and sweet cuddles. You will also want to make sure that your furry friend is healthy, happy, and well taken care of. This will ensure that your pet will live as long as possible and it will also make your life easier. So, here are six tips to help you take care of your new puppy.
Select a Trusted Veterinarian
It is wise to have your dog's vet chosen before you even bring him or her home. When searching for a doctor for your puppy, make sure they have good reviews from other customers and that they have a good number of years of experience. You want to also ask what their prices are for vaccines and neutering or spaying to make sure it is something you can afford and keep up with. Your veterinarian can also recommend dog food for your breed.
Get to Know Your Breed of Choice
Every dog breed has its own characteristics. For example, small and toy breeds are known for teeth issues. Large breeds may have joint and hip problems later in life. Get comfortable with your dog's breed so that you can take the best care of them and their needs. Just like you might need an eye care supplement for your eyes as you age, your dog may require specific supplements and supports as they get older. There are some types of dogs who get along great with children, and others who may not. Take that into consideration when you choose your new family member. Also, if you live in a small apartment, some large breeds may not be happy in your home. Do your research.
Choose a Training Style
You will need to train your animal to behave in your residence and around your family. A puppy will be curious and have a lot of energy when they are young. Will you crate train? Do you want to assert dominance with your pet? There are several proven methods to help acclimate your new member of the family to your lifestyle. A well-trained dog is a happy dog. This will also decrease damage done to your property due to your pet being bored or frustrated.
Keep Pest and Fleas Out
As you read above, your vet can help you find many medications and supplements for your new dog. Make sure that this includes flea and tick preventative. Fleas not only are a nuisance for your pet, but their bites can make them sick. Pets can also acquire heartworm from certain insect bites. This is especially true for active dogs who swim and hike outside. Make sure that your care routine includes heartworm medicine and regular heartworm checks. Consult your veterinarian for more information.
Give Your Dog Identification
It is possible for even the most well-trained dog to run off, get lost, or stolen. Of course, you will want to do your best to protect your dog and keep a careful eye, but even then, mistakes do happen. This is why it is very important to give your dog a proper ID. This can include a name collar with your contact information. You might consider giving your pet a microchip. Or even a device with gps where you can quickly and easily locate a lost pet. Most of all, it may give you peace of mind when your dog is out of your sight.
Know When to Let Go
This is the part that not many dog owners want to talk about. It is naturally the hardest part. However, it is still a reality and something that needs to be addressed. It is important that you get to know your dog and its traits and habits. Take note of your dog's routine so that you can observe when they are not feeling well. Although you wish they could live forever, you want to make sure that they feel their best when they are here with you. If something about your dog's health seems off, be sure to take them to the vet. And when the time comes to let them go peacefully, make the right choice.
